Word Origin & History

sovereign late 13c., from O.Fr. soverain, from V.L. *superanus "chief, principal," from L. super "over" (see super-). Spelling influenced by folk-etymology association with reign. Milton spelled it sovran, as though from It. sovrano. Meaning "gold coin worth 22s 6d" first recorded 1490s; value changed 1817 to 1 pound. As an adj., attested from early 14c.; of remedies or medicines, "potent in a high degree," from late 14c.

Example Sentences for sovereign

On the invasion of William, as we have seen, it was in the possession of Edwin, sovereign of Deira.

"Be sovereign of Greece, and then enjoy ourselves," said the king.

What is left for the sovereign power to decide on, if this right be denied him?

Rumi-naui himself enters and receives the thanks of his sovereign.

It was quite like being received by a sovereign, Decatur imagined.

And casting about for an excuse, he grasped at the most sovereign solace he knew of.

His master selected a sovereign from his purse and handed it to the servant.